UNCP Student Spotlight

Brandi Guffey

Student

Student Degree

Bachelor of Science

Student Major

Biology- Zoology Concentration

Student Hometown

Canton, North Carolina

Biography

I am a sophomore studying Biology with a concentration in Zoology. I plan on pursuing a degree in graduate school, in hopes of becoming a Veterinarian to work with exotic animals. I am privileged to be a member of the Esther G. Maynor Honors College, as well as a Class Representative for the Student Honors Council. I am a member of Lambda Sigma National Sophomore Honor Society. Also, I am a member of the Editorial Board for “The River”: a Literacy Commons Publication. I love being involved on campus and participating in all the great organizations the school has to offer. I am in the first group of science majors to be a part of the National Science Foundation (NSF) S-STEM COMPASS Scholarship program, which provides great opportunities for students.

Why did you choose to attend UNCP?

When I was looking at colleges, I always had this idea that I would go to a big University. Where I’m from in Western North Carolina, very few people have actually heard of UNCP. When I found out that UNCP had a program with a Zoology concentration, I decided to look into it. Needless to say upon visiting campus, I was not disappointed. Something about the campus and the people just felt like home to me. After being accepted into the Esther G. Maynor Honors College, I made the decision to attend. I have not been disappointed and I find more things that I love about Pembroke every day. Sometimes it’s difficult being over four hours away from home, but Pembroke has become my second home and I could not be happier with my decision.

What do you like best about UNCP?

There are so many things that I love about UNCP! The size of the campus and the small class sizes are definitely a benefit of UNCP. Unlike some classes at large universities, I’m actually engaged in my classes and my professors know me by name. My professors are always extremely helpful and willing to do everything they can to ensure that their students succeed. At UNCP, you are not just a number; you are a student who is well respected within the academe. Without this, I know I would not have been so successful in my academics thus far. The Living-Learning Communities are also a huge benefit. With this, students live with other students who have similar majors or interests in order to help them better succeed as a group. This is great way to develop friendships and work together to succeed! I love every organization that I have become a part of! There are so many ways for students to succeed here and truly become “Brave”! UNC Pembroke truly is the total college package!